
Replace Your Car's AC Thermal Expansion Valve or Orifice Tube
Your car or truck's AC system is under extreme pressure and the thermal expansion valve or orifice tube monitors the amount of pressure and the temperature of your A/C system. It calculates the precise amount of refrigerant that can safely go into the evaporator. A failing expansion valve or orifice tube often causes a vehicle's air conditioner to blow hot air.
Replace or Repair
- Expansion Valves: Too much refrigerant causes your evaporator to get too cold whereas too little refrigerant would result in inadequate cooling. The expansion valve is a complex valve that regulates refrigerant flow. This process of metering the refrigerant adjusts the flow according to the temperature of the refrigerant in the evaporator coil. Talk to one of the pro mechanics at Mel's Garage, as this part can be replaced on its own and does not require the entire replacement of the AC assembly.
- Orifice Tubes: Unlike the expansion valve, the orifice tube is a simple fixed device with no moving parts. It therefore cannot vary the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator, but rather causes a permanent restriction in the system. However, like the expansion valve the orifice tube regulates refrigerant flow through the system and filters debris which may come through in its screen. Often fixing a "bad orifice tube" requires replacing the entire evaporator assembly.

Contact Us Today!
Got questions? We've got answers! Drop us a line, give us a call, or even stop by. Our team is eager to help you with any auto repair needs you have. Let's get you back on the road safely and swiftly!
What Our Customers Are Saying
We have trusted Mel's Garage for decades. Many garages will give you a long list of mystery repairs you need, aside from the work you requested. Tim and Cory would never do this. If you are looking for ethical mechanics who will do the work well and at a fair price, you have found your garage in Mel's. Great service, great mechanics.
Brakes, near Watertown, Wisconsin
Mel's Garage was great to work with throughout a complicated mechanical problem on my car. Cory and his dad kept me advised of the status of the repair. Professionalism is exhibited during the entire auto repair process. Thank you and the entire team for superb service.
A little garage hidden away on a side street. But, tremendous customer service. We have used them for years, and they are very honest guys, with integrity. Very knowledgeable and fair.
They were fast and so friendly. They ended up having exactly what I needed when I went in for a quote. They had me fixed up in about an hour. They guys were so friendly and courteous. Will definitely go back!